individuals who stood in the spot where you stand today. [ music ] >> reporter: president obama said after african american president isn't enough and we stand to learn from those who fought for equality. >> taught them that no man can take away the dignity and grace god grants us. >> reporter: 50 years ago martin luther king encouraged people to push for positive change. that message was echoed here today. reporting live in washington, ktvu channel 2 news. >> people came from all over the country for today's anniversary. among them, she had march in 1963. >> we are here to make sure our children and all the children over the united states of america understand they have a responsibility. and that responsibility ubis to help their country become -- is to help their country become a great country. >> her main concern today is the same as it was 50 years ago, equality among all races and she echoed martin luther king's speech. >> all people being able to be judged by the content of their character. >> in 1963, 253 people strong. observers say the crowd appeared much smaller today. more